Restoring Form and Function: Cheek Flap Reconstruction of a Nasolabial Defect Following Basal Cell Carcinoma Excision

Objectives: To describe wide local excision and single-stage cheek advancement flap reconstruction for nasolabial basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and evaluate early outcomes including flap viability, complications, and facial nerve function. Background: Nasolabial BCC reconstruction requires balancing oncologic clearance with preservation of contour and facial dynamics. Cheek advancement flaps offer good tissue match and vascularity. Methods: A 60-year-old woman with a 2.7 cm × 2.7 cm nasolabial nodular-infiltrative BCC underwent wide excision (defect 4 cm × 3 cm) and immediate cheek flap reconstruction. Outcomes included flap viability, complications, and facial nerve function across three follow-ups. Results: Flap viability was preserved without necrosis, infection, hematoma, or dehiscence. The patient was discharged on day 6. Facial nerve function was largely intact, with mild transient smile asymmetry. Aesthetic outcomes were favorable. Conclusions: Cheek advancement flap provides reliable single-stage reconstruction for moderate nasolabial defects. Further studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes.